How to Buy and Recharge a T-money Card at Incheon Airport
Your 2025 Guide for Hassle-Free Travel in South Korea
What Is a T-money Card?
The T-money card is a rechargeable smart transportation card widely used across South Korea. It can be used to pay for:
- Subways and buses nationwide (including Seoul, Busan, Incheon)
- Some taxis (with T-money readers)
- Convenience stores and vending machines
It's a must-have for international students and foreign travelers in Korea.
Where to Buy a T-money Card at Incheon Airport
You can easily purchase a T-money card at Incheon International Airport (ICN) in the following locations:
- Convenience Stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) — located on the arrival floors of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
- AREX Travel Center — near the Airport Railroad (AREX) entrance
- Tourist Information Centers — staff speak English, Chinese, and Japanese
The cost of the card is usually KRW 2,500–4,000 (no balance included).
How to Recharge Your T-money Card
1. Recharge at Convenience Stores
Hand your card and cash to the cashier and say: "T-money recharge, please."
- Minimum recharge: KRW 1,000
- Maximum balance: KRW 500,000
- Cash only — cards and foreign currencies are not accepted
2. Recharge Using Subway Station Machines
Inside the AREX or subway station, find a T-money recharge machine. Instructions are available in English.
- Insert your T-money card
- Select “Recharge”
- Choose an amount
- Insert cash and wait for the confirmation
How to Use the T-money Card
To use the card, simply tap it on the sensor at subway gates, bus entrances, and taxi terminals. Remember:
- Tap when you get on and off buses and subways
- One card per person is required
You can also use the card for small purchases at convenience stores or vending machines that accept T-money.
How to Get a Refund
If you’re leaving Korea and want to refund the balance:
- Visit a CU or GS25 convenience store
- Refunds under KRW 20,000 are instant (minus a fee of ~KRW 500)
- Higher amounts require visiting a designated refund center (e.g., Seoul Station)
Tips for Foreign Students & Travelers
- T-money cards do not expire — you can keep it for future trips
- Each person must use their own card — sharing is not allowed
- There are special edition T-money cards with cute or K-pop themes available
